I am surprised at the brief response by Minister of State for Transport Lim Hwee Hua, citing land constraints, to the suggestion by Ms Irene Ng (Tampines GRC) that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) commission a 'serious study' to examine how congested cities have integrated bicycles seamlessly into their transport system. We encourage foreigners to settle in Singapore but don't realise that many, particularly those from China, would be put off by the negative response to the call for cycling paths.

Even opposition MP Low Thia Khiang (Hougang) has conveniently forgotten the problem of pedestrians and cyclists.

Ms Ng pointed out that 541 cyclists or pillion riders were killed or injured last year and, surely, one death is one too many.

It is disheartening to note that nothing has been suggested to address the problem posed to both pedestrians and cyclists by ignoring what is becoming common paths for both groups.

To walk safely and confidently is a human right. The call for a pedestrian safety council should be looked

into seriously because car users increasingly behave arrogantly against pedestrians, children, the elderly or handicapped.

As for the growing number of cyclists, clearly the LTA should look into the problem.

Zainuddin Mohd Ismail